What to do in Bordeaux in 3 days
If you are looking for a European destination capable of combining history, gastronomy, wine, architecture and sea, Bordeaux is probably one of the best possible choices. Elegant but never excessive, refined without being distant, this city in the southwest of France manages to conquer anyone with its historic center UNESCO Heritage, large boulevards, monumental squares and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to live slowly.
Bordeaux is known throughout the world as the capital of wine, but limiting it to this would be reductive. In recent years it has become one of the most dynamic French cities, thanks to important urban redevelopment interventions that have restored splendor to its honey-colored stone buildings, the banks of the Garonne and the numerous cultural spaces.
One of the great advantages is the strategic location: in less than an hour by train you can reach Arcachon, an elegant seaside resort overlooking the Atlantic, perfect for a day trip or to spend a few nights immersed in beaches, oysters and nature.
In this guide I tell you what to see in Bordeaux, how to organize a day in Arcachon and where I recommend sleeping and eating to live a truly unforgettable trip.
What to see in Bordeaux
Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d’Eau
It is undoubtedly the symbol of the city. The beautiful Place de la Bourse is one of the most beautiful examples of French architecture of the 18th century.
In front of the square is the famous Miroir d’Eau, the largest reflective surface in the world, where a few centimeters of water transform the surrounding buildings into a spectacular reflection. Alternating moments of water and artificial fog, it is one of the most photographed places in the city, especially at sunset.
Walking along the Garonne
The banks of the river have been completely redeveloped and today represent the heart of city life.
Here you will find:
- Cycle paths;
- Rooms and terraces;
- Green areas;
- Markets;
- Street artists.
It is the ideal place for a walk at sunset or for an aperitif with a view.
The historic center
Getting lost in the streets of Bordeaux is probably the best thing to do.
Among the stages not to be missed:
- Rue Sainte-Catherine, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe;
- Place of Parliament;
- Place Camille Jullian;
- Cailhau Gates;
- Grosse Cloche, one of the medieval symbols of the city.
Every corner hides elegant palaces, small bistros, independent boutiques and beautiful light stone facades.
Saint-André Cathedral
Imposing and majestic, it dominates the city center.
Next to it is the Pey-Berland Tower, from which you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Bordeaux.
La Cité du Vin
Even those who are not a wine enthusiast should visit it.
More than a museum, it is an immersive experience that tells the culture of wine through multimedia installations, tastings and interactive routes.
On the top floor there is a panoramic viewpoint where you can sip a glass while observing the city.
Neighborhood Chartrons
Once a neighborhood of wine merchants, today it is one of the most fascinating areas of Bordeaux.
Here you will find:
- Vintage shops;
- Art galleries;
- Designer coffee shops;
- Wine bar;
- Restaurants.
It is a perfect area for a quiet evening away from the most touristy areas.
Experiences not to be missed
In addition to classic visits, I recommend dedicating time to some experiences as well.
- Tasting in a Médoc or Saint-Émilion winery.
- Evening cruise on the Garonne.
- Aperitif at sunset along the river.
- Capucins market to taste local products.
- Shopping in the boutiques of the historic center.
Arcachon: the perfect trip out of town
If you have at least three days available, absolutely dedicate a day (or even better a night) to Arcachon.
Reachable in about 50 minutes by train from Bordeaux, this elegant town overlooking the Atlantic Ocean represents a completely different face of New Aquitaine.
The atmosphere changes radically.
Here the pace is slow, the Belle Époque villas alternate with maritime pines, the beaches are immense and the air smells salty.
Arcachon is famous above all for its natural basin, oysters and for being the gateway to the spectacular Pilat Dune.
La Ville d’Hiver
It’s probably the most fascinating part of the city.
Going up the hills you enter the so-called “Winter City”, a neighborhood born in the 19th century where the French aristocracy built beautiful villas surrounded by greenery.
Walking here means discovering residences with the most disparate architectures: Swiss chalets, colonial villas, neo-Gothic residences and perfectly preserved eccentric buildings.
The streets are quiet and shady, ideal for a walk away from the crowds.
The seafront
The Arcachon promenade is perfect for a walk.
You will find:
- Sandy beaches;
- Local sea view;
- Ice cream parlors;
- Small piers;
- Yachts and sailing boats.
On sunny days the view of the Arcachon Basin is simply magnificent.
The covered market
One of the best places to get in touch with the local gastronomy.
Here you can buy:
- Freshly caught oysters;
- Shrimps;
- Cheeses;
- Foie gras;
- Regional wines.
If you love French cuisine, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Boat trip
One of the most beautiful experiences is the boat ride of the Arcachon Basin.
While sailing you can observe:
- Oyster farms;
- Small fishing villages;
- The Île aux Oiseaux;
- The iconic Cabanes Tchanquées built on the water. These stilts are one of the symbols of the entire region.
The Dune of Pilat
About a 15-minute drive from Arcachon is one of the most spectacular natural places in all of France.
The Pilat Dune is the highest sand dune in Europe.
Over 100 meters high and almost 3 kilometers long, it offers an incredible view on one side of the Landes forest and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. The climb takes a few minutes thanks to the staircase installed in the summer months. The advice is to visit it at sunset. The golden light makes the view truly spectacular.
Where to sleep
Les Vagues Hotel & Spa – Arcachon
To experience Arcachon in the best way I definitely recommend the Les Vagues Hotel & Spa.
Directly overlooking the sea, it is an elegant five-star hotel with a contemporary design that combines discreet luxury and a relaxed atmosphere.
The strengths are:
- Rooms with ocean view;
- Swimming pool;
- Modern spa;
- Panoramic restaurant;
- Perfect location to reach the center on foot.
It is the ideal choice to enjoy a few days of relaxation between the beach and gastronomy.
Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa – Bordeaux
For Bordeaux, I recommend the refined Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa, one of the most elegant hotels in the city.
Located in a very quiet residential area, it allows you to reach the historic center with a pleasant walk.
The rooms are spacious and cared for in the smallest details, while the outdoor pool and the spa are a not obvious plus for a city break.
The breakfast is excellent and the service impeccable, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a high-level stay.
